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How to Move a Bleeding Heart Plant

By S.F. Heron; Updated September 21, 2017

Few plants possess the stunning flowers of the bleeding heart. This partial shade perennial produces intricate heart-shaped flowers in bright pink and white. Moving a bleeding heart to another garden site requires the gardener to schedule the best time for transplant. Selecting the correct spot and practicing the best gardening techniques ensures that the plant survives transplant and thrives in the future.

Transplant in the spring to allow the bleeding heart plant time to acclimate to a new location. Plant in a spot that offers partial sun and shade with good drainage. Allow plenty of space for the plant to reach a mature height and width of at least 30 inches, although the bleeding heart foliage can increase past this size.

Prepare the transplant location using manure or compost to increase the organic material in the soil. Turn over the garden area at least 12 inches deep, using a shovel or tiller. Pour a 3- to 4-inch layer of manure or compost onto the garden surface and work it into the soil with the shovel or tiller.

Position the shovel at the drip line (edge of foliage) of the bleeding heart plant. Bury the shovel blade deep into the soil. Dig a trench in a circle around the plant. Remove the soil and place it to the side of the trench.

Slip the shovel under the soil around the root. Work around the rootball, pushing the shovel through the soil below the roots.

Lift the entire plant by the rootball into the wheelbarrow for transfer to the new site. Replace the soil in the old location and firm the ground.

Dig a hole in the amended soil at the new location to mimic the planting depth at the previous site. Position the bleeding heart in the hole and fill in around the roots with dirt. Firm the soil by hand and level it with the garden surface.

Water the plant at the base with a trickle of water for five minutes to allow moisture to seep to root level. Monitor soil moisture levels to make sure roots receive adequate water as the plant becomes established. Dig a hole with a trowel 6 inches deep to check for moisture. Provide more trickle irrigation to moisten the soil if it's dry.

Things You Will Need

Shovel

Wheelbarrow

Compost

Mulch

Garden hose

Trowel

Tip

Bleeding heart produces foliage and blooms in late spring. The plant will die off to the ground as the summer progresses.